Raksha Mantri Pays Tribute to Major Somnath Sharma on His Balidan Diwas
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh paid solemn tributes to Major Somnath Sharma, India’s first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, on his Balidan Diwas. The Rakhsa Mantri posted a message on ‘X’ remembering his extraordinary courage, exemplary leadership and supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
Raksha Mantri recalled Major Sharma’s valiant role in the Battle of Badgam on November 3, 1947. Despite facing overwhelming odds, Major Sharma stood firm against the enemy and displayed exceptional courage and leadership in defending Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, an integral part of India.
Shri Rajnath Singh said that Major Somnath Sharma’s unwavering devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice embody the finest traditions of the Indian Army, particularly the ideals of ‘Service Before Self’, ‘Courage in Adversity’ and ‘Duty Above All’.
The Raksha Mantri further stated that Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy would continue to inspire generations of soldiers and every Indian, serving as an enduring symbol of courage, patriotism and selfless service to the nation.
On the ‘Balidan Diwas’ of Major Somnath Sharma, PVC, India’s first Param Vir Chakra awardee, I pay my solemn tributes to his extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice.
On 3 November 1947, at the Battle of Badgam, he stood firm against overwhelming odds, displaying exceptional valour and leadership in defending Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir, an integral part of India.
His courage, unwavering devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice embody the finest traditions of the Indian Army – Service Before Self, Courage in Adversity and Duty Above All.
His legacy will forever inspire generations of soldiers and every Indian.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 3, 2026